I spend a lot of time in the water, so I know how much of a difference the best swimming earplugs can make. I’ve been swimming competitively since I was 10, and took up triathlons in 2016 to get fit after having my son. What started as a way to get back into exercise soon became a regular part of my life. These days, I split my time between pool sessions and the occasional open-water swim, getting in the water about twice a week.Over the years, I’ve also had my fair share of swimmer’s ear, so I know how uncomfortable it can be. Also known as otitis externa, it occurs when water becomes trapped in the outer ear canal, creating the warm, damp conditions that enable bacteria to thrive. It can cause anything from itching and swelling to surprisingly intense pain, which is why I now consider a good pair of earplugs an essential part of my swim kit.Plus, I often swim with bone-conduction waterproof headphones, and the sound quality is noticeably better when the ears are blocked with a decent pair of swimming earplugs. For this review, I tested a range of designs, from mouldable silicone to reusable flanged styles, to find the swimming earplugs that stay put and keep out water. Keep reading for my verdict.Read more: I’m a cold water swimmer – these are the best changing robes I’ve usedI put a range of different styles to the test in indoor pools and open water (Zoe Griffin/The Independent)The best swimming earplugs for 2026 are:Best overall – Bollsen watersafe+ swimming earplugs: £26.95, Amazon.co.ukBest budget buy – Nabaiji malleable earplugs: £3.99, Decathlon.co.ukBest for a secure fit – Mack’s Aquablock earplugs: £5.99, Amazon.co.ukBest for open-water swimming – SurfEars swimming earplugs: £54.95, Amazon.co.ukBest for comfort – Speedo biofuse swimming earplugs: £6.99, Decathlon.co.ukRead more: Best swimming caps for the pool and open water, tested by a triathlete